Bournemouth, Dorset

Fancy an alternative place to stay this Christmas? Overlooking Bournemouth beach, the 15 Bournemouth Beach Lodges are heated, with south-facing decks, kitchens, bathrooms, WiFi and accommodation for up to four people. You can have your Festive Lodge decorated pre-arrival, and there are plenty of great bars and restaurants nearby if you don’t fancy cooking. Seven nights’ self-catering from £475 (arriving on December 22). [Photo: Bournemouth Beach Lodges]

Where to spend Christmas in the UK (if you fancy a break from home)

There’s just over a month until Christmas – a day that involves stress from cooking the turkey just right (and washing up afterwards) and clearing fallen tree needles out of your carpet for months after the big day.

This year, why not leave the hard work to someone else?

There are plenty of hotels around the UK offering festive packages that include feasts and activities suitable for all ages. Or treat your family to a change of scenery by booking a self-catering property where you have the choice of cooking or eating out.

From Cornwall to Cumbria, here’s our pick of the best places to spend Christmas around the UK if you can’t – or don’t want to – be at home.